Fundraiser for Hartlepool cyclist Michael Waistell beats its £2,500 target

Cyclist Michael Waistell died after he was hit by a van in Hartlepool on Friday morning, July 31.

Now family friend Sarah Bate has set up a gofundme page to raise money to help the family through this difficult time.

“As many of you may have seen Michael Waistell, a loving father, husband, son, colleague and a friend to many was tragically taken away on Friday 31st July 2020 in a hit and run collision in Hartlepool,” she wrote.

“This was obviously completely unexpected so as a very close friend of his daughter, Laura, I wanted to take some of the financial burden away from his family at this tragic time. If anyone can help no matter how small would be gratefully appreciated. Thank you, Sarah.”

The page had an initial target of £2,500, but has raised £2,746 in just three days.

The response prompted Sarah to add a second note to the page explaining that the money raised will be given to Mick’s family.

"Again thanks for all your donations, it won't ease the heartache but if it can ease the load a little we have all done what we can!”

Mowbray Road was closed for several hours on Friday as forensic investigators worked at the scene of the collision.

The North East Ambulance service confirmed that a passerby was carrying out CPR on Mr Waistell when an ambulance was dispatched.

A statement from the North East Ambulance Service added: “We were called at 6.48am to a cyclist unconscious after being involved in a road traffic collision.

"CPR was in progress and we dispatched a double-crewed ambulance and a clinical care manager.”

Mr Waistell was declared dead at the scene.

Any witnesses who have not yet spoken to police, or anyone who may have dash cam footage which could assist the investigation, is asked to contact Cleveland Police on 101, quoting incident number 123481.

William Lee Stallard, 35, appeared at Teesside Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, August 1 after being arrested and charged by Cleveland Police with causing Michael Waistell’s death by dangerous driving.

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